Howard County Snowfall Guide: Snow Removal, Traffic Updates

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — Wow, that escalated quickly. What weather forecasters predicted would only be a slight chance for a few snowflakes on Saturday morning has turned into a forecast of up to 4 inches for our area and a winter weather advisory. Here's what you need to know about the snow in HoCo.

Who removes the snow in Howard County?

Howard County public works crews clear snow from 3,602 county roadways. For general information, contact the Citizen Information Hotline at 410-313-2900.

The State Highway Administration handles state roads like US 1, US 40, US 29, MD 32 and MD 108. The state has jurisdiction at intersections with state and county roads, according to Howard County government. In Howard County, the State Highway Administration's Dayton office is reachable at 410-531-5533.

• Up To 5 Inches Of Snow Possible
• HCPSS Makes Weather Decision For Saturday

When will my street be plowed?

Before the storm, crews spread de-icing materials. Depending on how intense the storm was, plowing may follow. During a typical snowstorm of 6 to 12 inches, the county's goal is to have roads cleared within 12 to 18 hours after the storm ends.

Here is the order in which roads are plowed:

• Primary: Roads critical to fire, ambulance and police service.
• Secondary
• Residential: Cul-de-sacs and courts

Traffic tip: Give snow plows room to work and do not try to pass a plow train.

How can residents help?

• Clear ice, snow and leaves from around fire hydrants and storm drains.
• Do not shovel snow from your property onto the sidewalk or street.
• Park your car off the street wherever possible.
• Report potholes to Howard County.
• Check on neighbors needing assistance.

Need tips for shoveling?

• Shovel early and often. Newly fallen snow is lighter than heavily packed or partially melted snow. It is also important to keep a path to your door in case you need to leave in an emergency.
• Push the snow instead of lifting it. Keep the shovel close to your body, and space your hands to increase leverage. If you must lift snow, lift properly. Squat with your legs apart, knees bent and back straight. Lift with your legs; do not bend at the waist. Scoop small amounts of snow into the shovel and walk to where you want to dump it.
• Do not throw the snow over your shoulder or to the side. This action requires a twisting motion that stresses your back.
• Do not work to the point of exhaustion.
• Don't pick up that shovel without a doctor's permission if you have a history of heart disease. If you feel tightness in the chest or dizziness, stop immediately.
• Do not let a hat or scarf block your vision. Watch out for ice patches and uneven surfaces. Avoid falls by wearing shoes/boots that have slip-resistant soles.
• Snow is a powerful light reflector on sunny days. Wear sunglasses to prevent "snow blindness."
• Pace yourself. Shoveling snow is an aerobic activity, comparable to weightlifting. Take frequent breaks from the cold and the effort, and replenish fluids to prevent dehydration.

How will this affect traffic?

Since the snow is falling after the Friday evening commute and is projected to be heaviest on Saturday, we'll be spared a rush-hour nightmare in the Baltimore metro area. However, it can still cause problems, so you should monitor the National Weather Service's social media feeds for any updates.

Call 511 or visit www.md511.org to learn about road conditions in any area of the state.

Where to find snow closings and cancellations?
Government closings and cancellations are communicated on the Howard County website and social media, including on Facebook and Twitter. School closing announcements due to inclement weather are available from Howard County Public School System.

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Photo Credit: State Highway Administration.